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On Monday, 21 September, AmCham EU hosted Sigitas Mitkus, Lithuanian Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, for a fireside chat. Moderated by Malte Lohan, CEO, AmCham EU, the participants looked ahead to Lithuania’s Presidency of the Council of the EU and the role business can play in supporting its priorities. The exchange focused on Lithuania’s upcoming Presidency priorities, including strengthening transatlantic relations, enhancing European competitiveness and security, and advancing simplification. Discussions also covered Single Market fragmentation, access to finance, digital policy, support for Ukraine and defence cooperation, with an emphasis on private sector investment and effective implementation of EU initiatives.

Ireland will assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2026 at a decisive moment for Europe’s competitiveness agenda. With the EU seeking to advance simplification, strengthen the Single Market and shape the next Multiannual Financial Framework, the Presidency will have a critical role to play in turning ambition into action. Its programme spans competitiveness, values and security. However, none of these priorities can succeed without a strong economy that fosters innovation and growth. In this context, AmCham EU’s Recommendations to the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU sets out concrete actions to advance a competitive and resilient EU economy. These proposals aim to help shape Europe into an attractive place for businesses to invest, operate and grow.

How can Europe strengthen its digital resilience while remaining open to the partnerships that drive AI innovation? On Wednesday, 17 June, Malte Lohan, CEO, AmCham EU, addressed this at a conference organised by the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU in Nicosia, Cyprus. Discussions focused on how Europe can build a more resilient digital ecosystem while remaining an attractive destination for investment and innovation. Mr Lohan underlined that secure supply chains and trusted partnerships are essential to Europe’s AI competitiveness. He also highlighted the role of US businesses as committed partners in helping Europe build and compete globally, while stressing the need for balanced policies that strengthen resilience and give companies the confidence to invest in Europe.